LONDON EVENTS – London Zoo’s adult-only Zoo Nights return 5 June 

Posted by Editor on May 7, 2026 in London Events | Leave a comment

ZSL’s 200^th anniversary celebrations continue at Zoo Nights 
Every Friday from 5 June to 24 July 2026, 6pm – 10pm | Adults only (18+) 

As the sun sets over Regent’s Park, and the children are fast asleep, London Zoo will once again open its gates for a night of wildlife, street food and live entertainment at Zoo Nights, an adult evening summer series for animal-lovers and culture-vultures looking for a great night out in the city. 

Running every Friday from 5 June to 24 July from 6pm, Zoo Nights offers a fun and alternative early evening date night, post-work Friday frolic or the cherry on top for those looking to maxx their day out in London.  

New for 2026, Zoo Nights will have added nostalgia as London Zoo will be celebrating 200 years of ZSL, the iconic science-driven conservation charity. Those who think they know the Pooh behind the zoo can test their skills at the new guided ‘Two Truths & a Lion’ tour*, which takes fans on a journey through ZSL’s incredible history, sharing two truths and a lie at various stops along the way, a fun twist for guests to determine fact from fiction.  

Guests can also explore ZSL’s vibrant new Heritage Exhibition to celebrate the rich history of ZSL’S 200years, with a host of pop culture facts and historical moments that have shaped the world’s first scientific zoo. At the heart of the exhibition is a colourful interactive installation featuring a rich mix of historic footage, archival imagery and stories from supporters and staff sharing childhood moments in days gone by, creating a collective picture of ZSL’s past, present and future.  Visuals transport visitors back in time, while interactive elements invite discussion and make for fun photo opportunities!  

Friday nights have never been so wild, with animal themed facepainting and a programme of adult-enhanced zookeeper talks, where visitors can learn about some of the Zoo’s most loved animals, from Galapagos tortoises and a pygmy hippo to Linne’s two-toed sloths and Sumatran tigers. With many of the animals being nocturnal, or like the Zoo’s popular resident capybaras, Gizmo and Kiwi, most active during the dawn and dusk hours, Zoo Nights offers a coveted opportunity for animal lovers. 

Attendees can also delight in an immersive pop-up exhibition from Disney’s award-winning musical THE LION KING, who are partnering with London Zoo again for a summer-long exhibition (included in ticket entry).The exhibition showcases how the natural world has inspired the masks, puppets and costumes used in the landmark musical, and it gives visitors the rare chance to see them up close to learn about the craftsmanship and artistry behind them. Iconic characters such as Rafiki, Zazu, Mufasa, Simba and Nala will be on display along with key textiles and props which bring the show to life every night in the West End.   

A street food festival will take over the heart of the Zoo, with a variety of vendors serving dishes from around the world, alongside pop-up watering holes (bars) where guests can enjoy a drink while soaking up the lively atmosphere and acoustic music performances across the site. 

For those looking to elevate their evening, a range of bookable upgrades will be available. PPPPP-op the question at the Champagne Experience at Penguin Beach or play make-believe and let their inner child run wild at the new indoor play area ZooTown, plus the chance to extend the experience with a VIP Zoo Nights Sleepover in the Zoo’s on-site lodges. 

Zoo Nights forms one of many celebrations to mark ZSL’s 200th birthday this year, and while the focus remains firmly on a memorable night out, every ticket purchased helps support ZSL’s global conservation work, protecting wildlife and restoring habitats around the world.  

Zoo Nights is an adults-only event for guests aged 18 and over. Prices from £23.50pp. Find out more and book tickets at www.londonzoo.org/zoonights